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The Connors #1
Box of Hearts
Can two lost souls find love after loss?
Millie is unlucky in love and when her long term relationship ends like a soap opera story line, she takes drastic action. She applies for an overseas job as home school teacher on an American family Ranch and finds herself instantly attracted to single dad, Jesse, her boss. As for Jesse, well he doesn’t need her getting in his business and constantly reminding him that he neglects his daughter.
In Jesse Connor’s eyes his life would be simple if it consisted of three things. His ranch, his cattle and his horses. But it doesn’t- for one, there’s his young daughter, Adeline, who is fighting for his love and attention because he’s the only parent she has. Then there is Millie Braithwaite-that damn beautiful English woman.
Millie & Jesse are two people who are both fighting against the inevitable, because they both know that this time their hearts could be shattered beyond repair.
Box of Hearts is the first book in the Connor Ranch series and tells the story of second chance love and the joy and sorrow it can bring.
Millie is unlucky in love and when her long term relationship ends like a soap opera story line, she takes drastic action. She applies for an overseas job as home school teacher on an American family Ranch and finds herself instantly attracted to single dad, Jesse, her boss. As for Jesse, well he doesn’t need her getting in his business and constantly reminding him that he neglects his daughter.
In Jesse Connor’s eyes his life would be simple if it consisted of three things. His ranch, his cattle and his horses. But it doesn’t- for one, there’s his young daughter, Adeline, who is fighting for his love and attention because he’s the only parent she has. Then there is Millie Braithwaite-that damn beautiful English woman.
Millie & Jesse are two people who are both fighting against the inevitable, because they both know that this time their hearts could be shattered beyond repair.
Box of Hearts is the first book in the Connor Ranch series and tells the story of second chance love and the joy and sorrow it can bring.
494 pages, ebook
First published April 28, 2017
239 people are currently reading
519 people want to read
About the author
Nikki Ashton
51 books401 followersI live in Cheshire with my husband, two dogs and mum in law and write romantic humour and contemporary romance. My first two books, Guess Who I Pulled Last Night? and No Bra Required both stayed at number 1 on the Amazon Humour list for 3 & 4 weeks respectively. My ambitions of becoming a writer started at the age of 10 when I started writing poetry at school, and was given the honour of reading one out to the rest of my year group (an horrific experience that I will never forget). Thankfully I have a wide variety of strange and wonderful people in my life, otherwise I'd be stuck on what to write about! I am currently talking to family and friends, finding out their innermost secrets in readiness for my next book.
My books are romances that come with a little more than vanilla sexy times, sometimes a few tears, lots of hot men and feisty women, but ultimately they'll make you smile.
You can follow me on Twitter on @NikkerAsh or on Facebook at Nikki Ashton Books
My books are romances that come with a little more than vanilla sexy times, sometimes a few tears, lots of hot men and feisty women, but ultimately they'll make you smile.
You can follow me on Twitter on @NikkerAsh or on Facebook at Nikki Ashton Books
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
August 11, 2020
Jesse Connor is all my cowboy dreams. I absolutely loved the Box of Hearts audiobook.
Millie wants to escape her life in England so she takes a job on a ranch in the USA. Her task is to look after the brightest, most beautiful little girl she ever met. Her daddy is easy on the eye too. When Millie unravels the heart ache filling the ranch she risks a box of hearts.
This book is about the Conner family which I totally loved. Jesse is a brooding cowboy and Millie is a great girl.
This was such a great story.
Millie wants to escape her life in England so she takes a job on a ranch in the USA. Her task is to look after the brightest, most beautiful little girl she ever met. Her daddy is easy on the eye too. When Millie unravels the heart ache filling the ranch she risks a box of hearts.
This book is about the Conner family which I totally loved. Jesse is a brooding cowboy and Millie is a great girl.
This was such a great story.
April 27, 2017
I think Nikki Ashton may have broken me this time.
Earlier this year, I read Nikki Ashton’s ‘Roman’s Having Sex Again’. I loved it. In fact, I came to enjoy it so much more than I’d initially anticipated. Thus, I knew I needed to read more of her work. A month later, I picked up ‘I Wanna Get Laid By Kade’, which Nikki Ashton wrote with Victoria Johns. Again, I was in love. In fact, I’ve gone on the recommend it to quite a few people. Fast forward another month and I jumped into yet another brilliant read by Nikki Ashton. Box of Hearts had all the trademarks of the prior two books I picked up, and yet was so much more at the same time. If I hadn’t already planned to pick up all of Nikki Ashton’s work, this would have been the book to convince me. Honestly, this story is a thing of beauty. I’m an emotional wreck after finishing it, and such a thing very rarely happens to me.
Box of Hearts is deeply emotional in so many ways. It is so much more than a simple tale of second chance love. It’s a story of finding your place in the world; it’s a story of trust; it’s a story of family; it’s a story of redemption. In so many ways, it’s a very real story. To label this as a mere ‘second change love’ is an injustice. There are countless second chance love stories out there, but none have ever hit me as hard as this one. There are so many beautiful aspects to this story, so many things I wish to speak about, and yet I fear I will not be able to cover it all no matter how lengthy this fangirl of a review becomes. Nevertheless, I will try to cover the main things.
The story begins reading very much like a soap opera. We have wedding drama followed by a drastic life change. It was wonderful to read, yet this entertainment high quickly turns into something so much more serious once our female lead moves overseas. Whilst her heart may be bleeding in many ways, she is soon pulled into the lives of those on the Connor Ranch, a family filled with sorrow. Despite the dark cloud following them around, the family truly is a thing of beauty. If you’ve read Roman’s Having Sex Again, imagine Roman’s family but with less crazy. They’re so close; they have their ups and downs; but no matter what happens they come out stronger. I loved each and every character, and I was quickly pulled into their individual stories.
The award for best character, however, has to go to the child. Addy is a truly wonderful character. Yes, I loved our romance leads – but Addy added that little something extra to the story. The deep emotions experienced by the child and how her emotions impact those around her… well, you have to read it to believe it. Nikki Ashton has done a wonderful job at pulling at heartstrings through this child. The emotional depth for a young character that would often be overlooked in such stories made Box of Hearts a thing of beauty.
As I said, though, I loved all the characters. Our leads had such wonderful chemistry, and despite the constant push and pull (something I’m not usually all that crazy about) I was rooting for them. They were both such real characters that worked beautifully together. They both went through so much development throughout the story, and Nikki Ashton does a wonderful job of showing this. I’m positive, at certain moments in the story, there was a fist squeezing my heart, as the emotions that were brought about by the development of a certain character left me feeling so much more than I usually do.
Don’t worry, though, the story isn’t just desperate emotional moments that will leave you with a trembling bottom lip. There are plenty of amusing moments to be seen as well. A certain character in particular will leave you giggling, with Nikki Ashton ensuring her usual light-hearted eccentric family member makes an appearance. It’s not just the two ends of the spectrum – the heart-breaking moments and the laughter – as we experience everything that falls between the two. Throughout, Nikki Ashton manages to hit upon every possible emotion.
There’s no denying it, the book left me an emotional wreck. It was a truly beautiful read, and I cannot wait to see what comes next for this series. I’m so excited to see more of this family, and I’m positive Nikki Ashton will reach all new heights with it.
Despite how much I loved it, however, I couldn’t quite bring myself to give it a five star rating. I’m super harsh with my five star ratings – I know this, and I keep meaning to change, yet I never do make the change that is needed. In my mind, my five star ratings are the elite of the elite, meaning I spend all my time looking for little things to prevent me from handing it out. Thus, whilst I managed to find that little thing, I’m sure many will be able to overlook it and hand out that five star rating. For me, though, this is just a very strong four-point-five read.
What was that little thing that prevented me from rounding the book up to the five star rating? For me, I found a certain character’s story to be a bit too predictable. Although I was ever so slightly off with the specifics, I knew how the story of one of the characters would play out and how this would have a massive impact upon the overall story. From almost the first scene in which this character appeared, I worked out what kind of role they would be playing in the overall story. Whilst it was a vital aspect of the story, and it did play in well, I found myself disappointed in how obvious this turn of events seemed to be.
Nevertheless, I positively adored this one. A truly beautiful read, one I certainly recommend you go ahead and read.
Earlier this year, I read Nikki Ashton’s ‘Roman’s Having Sex Again’. I loved it. In fact, I came to enjoy it so much more than I’d initially anticipated. Thus, I knew I needed to read more of her work. A month later, I picked up ‘I Wanna Get Laid By Kade’, which Nikki Ashton wrote with Victoria Johns. Again, I was in love. In fact, I’ve gone on the recommend it to quite a few people. Fast forward another month and I jumped into yet another brilliant read by Nikki Ashton. Box of Hearts had all the trademarks of the prior two books I picked up, and yet was so much more at the same time. If I hadn’t already planned to pick up all of Nikki Ashton’s work, this would have been the book to convince me. Honestly, this story is a thing of beauty. I’m an emotional wreck after finishing it, and such a thing very rarely happens to me.
Box of Hearts is deeply emotional in so many ways. It is so much more than a simple tale of second chance love. It’s a story of finding your place in the world; it’s a story of trust; it’s a story of family; it’s a story of redemption. In so many ways, it’s a very real story. To label this as a mere ‘second change love’ is an injustice. There are countless second chance love stories out there, but none have ever hit me as hard as this one. There are so many beautiful aspects to this story, so many things I wish to speak about, and yet I fear I will not be able to cover it all no matter how lengthy this fangirl of a review becomes. Nevertheless, I will try to cover the main things.
The story begins reading very much like a soap opera. We have wedding drama followed by a drastic life change. It was wonderful to read, yet this entertainment high quickly turns into something so much more serious once our female lead moves overseas. Whilst her heart may be bleeding in many ways, she is soon pulled into the lives of those on the Connor Ranch, a family filled with sorrow. Despite the dark cloud following them around, the family truly is a thing of beauty. If you’ve read Roman’s Having Sex Again, imagine Roman’s family but with less crazy. They’re so close; they have their ups and downs; but no matter what happens they come out stronger. I loved each and every character, and I was quickly pulled into their individual stories.
The award for best character, however, has to go to the child. Addy is a truly wonderful character. Yes, I loved our romance leads – but Addy added that little something extra to the story. The deep emotions experienced by the child and how her emotions impact those around her… well, you have to read it to believe it. Nikki Ashton has done a wonderful job at pulling at heartstrings through this child. The emotional depth for a young character that would often be overlooked in such stories made Box of Hearts a thing of beauty.
As I said, though, I loved all the characters. Our leads had such wonderful chemistry, and despite the constant push and pull (something I’m not usually all that crazy about) I was rooting for them. They were both such real characters that worked beautifully together. They both went through so much development throughout the story, and Nikki Ashton does a wonderful job of showing this. I’m positive, at certain moments in the story, there was a fist squeezing my heart, as the emotions that were brought about by the development of a certain character left me feeling so much more than I usually do.
Don’t worry, though, the story isn’t just desperate emotional moments that will leave you with a trembling bottom lip. There are plenty of amusing moments to be seen as well. A certain character in particular will leave you giggling, with Nikki Ashton ensuring her usual light-hearted eccentric family member makes an appearance. It’s not just the two ends of the spectrum – the heart-breaking moments and the laughter – as we experience everything that falls between the two. Throughout, Nikki Ashton manages to hit upon every possible emotion.
There’s no denying it, the book left me an emotional wreck. It was a truly beautiful read, and I cannot wait to see what comes next for this series. I’m so excited to see more of this family, and I’m positive Nikki Ashton will reach all new heights with it.
Despite how much I loved it, however, I couldn’t quite bring myself to give it a five star rating. I’m super harsh with my five star ratings – I know this, and I keep meaning to change, yet I never do make the change that is needed. In my mind, my five star ratings are the elite of the elite, meaning I spend all my time looking for little things to prevent me from handing it out. Thus, whilst I managed to find that little thing, I’m sure many will be able to overlook it and hand out that five star rating. For me, though, this is just a very strong four-point-five read.
What was that little thing that prevented me from rounding the book up to the five star rating? For me, I found a certain character’s story to be a bit too predictable. Although I was ever so slightly off with the specifics, I knew how the story of one of the characters would play out and how this would have a massive impact upon the overall story. From almost the first scene in which this character appeared, I worked out what kind of role they would be playing in the overall story. Whilst it was a vital aspect of the story, and it did play in well, I found myself disappointed in how obvious this turn of events seemed to be.
Nevertheless, I positively adored this one. A truly beautiful read, one I certainly recommend you go ahead and read.
February 11, 2020
I've read books by this author before and I really like her writing style and I was really looking forward to reading this book and I was not disappointed with this one and neither will you be. If I could give more than five stars I would, I loved it.
This is book one in this series, The Connor Series: Connors Ranch #1.
Book 1 = Box of Hearts
Book 2 = Angel's Kisses
Book 3 = Secret Wishes
Jesse is a pure alpha male who's a strong, hot sexy cow boy who works on the ranch. After a tragedy Jesse has been haunted by his dead wife Melody for a few years and he hasn't ever let anyone get close to him ever since, not even his young daughter Addy. Jesse has completely alienated himself from all the people that matter in his life. Will Jesse let down his walls that are around his heart and finally let his daughter in ?
Millie is a beautiful, sexy as hell with curves to die for woman who has also has been quite unlucky where love is concerned and decides that she's had enough and for once she is going to do something for herself. Millie takes a teaching job abroad. Will Millie finally be forgiving of men ?
( NO SPOILERS ).
I really enjoyed reading this book I loved all the characters not just the main ones all of them. Jesse's family are so nice and supportive but also tell him the truth when he needs to hear it, now this is a family that you wish you were apart of for real. I was really rooting for Jesse and Millie as in there lives the have been through so much.
This book is full of love, loss, grief, heartbreak, sadness and friendship. There were times in this book when I didn't know what was going to happen and this author really holds your attention throughout her writing and that you cant put this book down until I knew what was going to happen. I loved watching this story unfold and I absoloutley loved the epilogue and seeing where everyone is and how they have moved on.
I will be highly recommending this book to everyone because it was fantastic and I cant wait to read the next installment in the Connor Series.
This book is out now.
This is book one in this series, The Connor Series: Connors Ranch #1.
Book 1 = Box of Hearts
Book 2 = Angel's Kisses
Book 3 = Secret Wishes
Jesse is a pure alpha male who's a strong, hot sexy cow boy who works on the ranch. After a tragedy Jesse has been haunted by his dead wife Melody for a few years and he hasn't ever let anyone get close to him ever since, not even his young daughter Addy. Jesse has completely alienated himself from all the people that matter in his life. Will Jesse let down his walls that are around his heart and finally let his daughter in ?
Millie is a beautiful, sexy as hell with curves to die for woman who has also has been quite unlucky where love is concerned and decides that she's had enough and for once she is going to do something for herself. Millie takes a teaching job abroad. Will Millie finally be forgiving of men ?
( NO SPOILERS ).
I really enjoyed reading this book I loved all the characters not just the main ones all of them. Jesse's family are so nice and supportive but also tell him the truth when he needs to hear it, now this is a family that you wish you were apart of for real. I was really rooting for Jesse and Millie as in there lives the have been through so much.
This book is full of love, loss, grief, heartbreak, sadness and friendship. There were times in this book when I didn't know what was going to happen and this author really holds your attention throughout her writing and that you cant put this book down until I knew what was going to happen. I loved watching this story unfold and I absoloutley loved the epilogue and seeing where everyone is and how they have moved on.
I will be highly recommending this book to everyone because it was fantastic and I cant wait to read the next installment in the Connor Series.
This book is out now.
April 17, 2017
This book is so different from all the other Nikki Ashton books I have read and it sort of worried me a little but have no fear. Nikki pulled this book off with her way with words, her attention to detail and the way she melts your heart every damn time. To say this book ticked all the boxes is a huge understatement. The whole cast of character that built this book into what it is was just amazing.
The story revolves around the Connor family and the nanny they hire to care for the best character in this book in my opinion Addy, a sassy gifted 4 years old. That's where Millie steps in. To say that the leading man Jesse is a arsehole is an understatement but he has his reason. As does Millie for being a broken but not to the extent of just how badly broken Jesse is.
I cried and cried alot reading this book but I also laughed hard alot too. The sass of some of the characters is amazing and the back and forth banter and interactions between all the characters just made this book for me. The story builds and builds and you are swept away in the fairytale that starts to develop. That's why I cried so much and my heart broke too.
This book is a huge recommend from me. Yes it's different from all the other books but God its no less a story of it. Grab some tissues and go get swept away by the Connor family and their incredible ranch. And become part of the family. Bring on more from this incredible family and The Connor's Series
The story revolves around the Connor family and the nanny they hire to care for the best character in this book in my opinion Addy, a sassy gifted 4 years old. That's where Millie steps in. To say that the leading man Jesse is a arsehole is an understatement but he has his reason. As does Millie for being a broken but not to the extent of just how badly broken Jesse is.
I cried and cried alot reading this book but I also laughed hard alot too. The sass of some of the characters is amazing and the back and forth banter and interactions between all the characters just made this book for me. The story builds and builds and you are swept away in the fairytale that starts to develop. That's why I cried so much and my heart broke too.
This book is a huge recommend from me. Yes it's different from all the other books but God its no less a story of it. Grab some tissues and go get swept away by the Connor family and their incredible ranch. And become part of the family. Bring on more from this incredible family and The Connor's Series
July 5, 2020
Toxic Book Alert
The relationship between the love interests was toxic.
The first sexual encounter was disturbing and should be a warning to what’s to follow.
The way characters spoke about other women side characters was full of slut shaming. The main male love interest was hurting so he was sleeping with a woman who his family called the town whore and said she had saggy breasts.
The younger brother got thrown out of college because he was running an escort service, which he said was ok because the girls didn’t have to sleep with the guys they were escorting and he always sent a guy to make sure the girls were ok. His character was adored by every female in the book.
The main bad character actually should of been sent for psychological help and tuned over to the police and not just left out in the world. When at the end all was revealed of what he did they decided to not alert the police, only making sure he didn’t work on a working ranching again so he would focus on helping his parents on their guest ranch.
The little four year old girl was written to be gifted. She sounded neither like a four year old girl or a gifted four year old girl.
The relationship between the love interests was toxic.
The first sexual encounter was disturbing and should be a warning to what’s to follow.
The way characters spoke about other women side characters was full of slut shaming. The main male love interest was hurting so he was sleeping with a woman who his family called the town whore and said she had saggy breasts.
The younger brother got thrown out of college because he was running an escort service, which he said was ok because the girls didn’t have to sleep with the guys they were escorting and he always sent a guy to make sure the girls were ok. His character was adored by every female in the book.
The main bad character actually should of been sent for psychological help and tuned over to the police and not just left out in the world. When at the end all was revealed of what he did they decided to not alert the police, only making sure he didn’t work on a working ranching again so he would focus on helping his parents on their guest ranch.
The little four year old girl was written to be gifted. She sounded neither like a four year old girl or a gifted four year old girl.
May 22, 2017
Box of Hearts was so nice and engaging I've devoured it in one day.I think I was starving for a country kind of story.I want a nice cowboy all for me now!
Addy is a bright,smart and lovely kid and I'm sure you'll love her as soon as you meet her.I loved how a little 4 years old girl becomes the "red string of fate" that helps all the characters to come back together,to find themselves,some peace of mind and love.
Millie and Jesse incredible chemistry is obvious since their first encounter but they can't surrender to their instincts because they are too scared,the first one of the awkward future she can get into falling for her boss and the second is obviously still trapped in his past to make a move.
I can tell Nikki Ashton succeded writing a really good contemporary romance,I look forward to reading the next one.
April 22, 2017
Just WOW! Have you ever watched a TV program or movie and come away saying boy that kid sure made that show? Well I must say a spunky little 4-year old girl named Addy sure did make this book! Oh don’t get me wrong there was so much more to this storyline but little Addy sure does steal the show!
I give the highest of kudos to the author for this gripping, touching story that will have your emotions running the gambit. I went from laughing and smiling to crying and hurting right along with the characters of the book. The entire Connor family and ranch-hands will steal your heart as they struggle through life at the ranch while recovering from recent tragedies (especially little Addy). Sometimes it's seeing life and love through the eyes of a child that can ease even the toughest of situations and trust me life around the Connor Ranch is anything but easy - especially for a British nanny who's recently been jilted at the altar and a rancher whose lost the love of his life (Addy’s mom) due to a car wreck. But a little girls sassy outlook on life and her “box of hearts” just might win the day!
This is a 100% Must Read and I truly hope beyond hope the author has more in store for us from the sleepy little town of Bridge Vale and the Connor Ranch! I highly recommend 1-clicking this book - you won't regret it. And who knows, you just may come away with a new way of looking at love and happiness with your very own “Box Of Hearts”.
I give the highest of kudos to the author for this gripping, touching story that will have your emotions running the gambit. I went from laughing and smiling to crying and hurting right along with the characters of the book. The entire Connor family and ranch-hands will steal your heart as they struggle through life at the ranch while recovering from recent tragedies (especially little Addy). Sometimes it's seeing life and love through the eyes of a child that can ease even the toughest of situations and trust me life around the Connor Ranch is anything but easy - especially for a British nanny who's recently been jilted at the altar and a rancher whose lost the love of his life (Addy’s mom) due to a car wreck. But a little girls sassy outlook on life and her “box of hearts” just might win the day!
This is a 100% Must Read and I truly hope beyond hope the author has more in store for us from the sleepy little town of Bridge Vale and the Connor Ranch! I highly recommend 1-clicking this book - you won't regret it. And who knows, you just may come away with a new way of looking at love and happiness with your very own “Box Of Hearts”.
September 4, 2019
I got an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review :) this was my second story by this lovely author and I have to say that her writing style is as hilarious as I remembered it from that first book ;) this one was also very entertaining and fast-paced :) was it perfect? not really, but I had sooo much fun reading it anyway :) it's the beginning of a series, but worry not, the whole situation with our main couple is resolved :) so how about I will tell you all about the things I loved about this story, and a few of them that bothered me a little ;) don't get me wrong, ultimately it's a 4 stars read for me and I can honestly recommend you to give it a try ;)
I need to start by telling you a bit more about our main couple :) and by that I mean I have to start with Millie :) oh how I loved her ;) she was so sassy and hilarious :) which is truly astounding especially after you take into consideration that her last relationship ended in a truly spectacular way... and I don't mean that in a good way... don't worry, it's nothing tragic :) so after deciding that she needed a change, she became a home school teacher to a young girl on another continent :) more about that little angel in a second ;) and of course she develops a huge crush on that girl's dad... what I loved about it, is that she openly admits to herself how unlogical and crazy is her instant attraction to him, but there's nothing she can do about it :) now about Jesse... yeah... I had some issues with him... throughout a big part of the book his behaviour was definitely leaning towards... how to put it mildly without cursing... ;) he was a jerk... and yes, once you know the whole story about why he is a single dad now, it helps you to understand him better, but I am not really a fan of this type of personality... in his defense there were certainly some very swoonworthy moments as well... ;)
Their relationship is actually one of the things I struggled with... there is a lot of push-and-pull between them... attraction and chemistry is off the charts, but at the same time there is also this whole we-cannot-be-doing-this attitude... and when it comes to my personal preferences as a reader, I don't like those types of interactions... don't get me wrong, I'm sure that a lot of you guys will have no problems with it... some people love the angst and the drama... I'm just not one of them :) but there were some really wonderful moments between them that I loved, so it wasn't only the struggles... ;) especially since it actually takes some time for them to get together... the book takes place over the span of a few months to be exact :) and I definitely loved watching how Millie starts to feel more comfortable and grows closer to everyone :)
When it comes to secondary characters, I need to name two of them :) first one is of course Addy, Jesse's daughter :) she's about four years old and just the cutest little thing :) she's very smart and I adored her... especially when you get to the part when the title of this book makes sense... *sighs dreamily* I won't say what it is, but it's so adorable I couldn't stop smiling once I read about it :) another one is Garratt, Jesse's younger brother... I am totally hoping he will get to be the hero of the sequel in this series... and if not the sequel then definitely somewhere along the way :) he was absolutely fantastic and I need to read about his happy ending :) there were of course quite a few others but these two absolutely stole my heart :)
All in all it was a really good book :) it was such a quick read for me, mainly because the writing style was hilarious and entertaining... ;) so even if certain characters *coughs* Jesse *coughs* did some things that made me want to smack them over the head... ;) I still couldn't put it down :) especially since it was actually written in 2 POVs, which means we got chapters from Millie's perspective, as well as Jesse's... :) and I have to say that being able to get a glimpse into his thoughts definitely helped me understand him... to the point I didn't hate him and was able to not throw my book away from frustration... ;) fortunately the ending was worth it... and that epilogue... *sighs happily* it's just what I like the most :) so even though I don't think it was perfect, I definitely had a lot of fun reading it and can honestly recommend this book to you guys... :)
XOXO
A
I need to start by telling you a bit more about our main couple :) and by that I mean I have to start with Millie :) oh how I loved her ;) she was so sassy and hilarious :) which is truly astounding especially after you take into consideration that her last relationship ended in a truly spectacular way... and I don't mean that in a good way... don't worry, it's nothing tragic :) so after deciding that she needed a change, she became a home school teacher to a young girl on another continent :) more about that little angel in a second ;) and of course she develops a huge crush on that girl's dad... what I loved about it, is that she openly admits to herself how unlogical and crazy is her instant attraction to him, but there's nothing she can do about it :) now about Jesse... yeah... I had some issues with him... throughout a big part of the book his behaviour was definitely leaning towards... how to put it mildly without cursing... ;) he was a jerk... and yes, once you know the whole story about why he is a single dad now, it helps you to understand him better, but I am not really a fan of this type of personality... in his defense there were certainly some very swoonworthy moments as well... ;)
Their relationship is actually one of the things I struggled with... there is a lot of push-and-pull between them... attraction and chemistry is off the charts, but at the same time there is also this whole we-cannot-be-doing-this attitude... and when it comes to my personal preferences as a reader, I don't like those types of interactions... don't get me wrong, I'm sure that a lot of you guys will have no problems with it... some people love the angst and the drama... I'm just not one of them :) but there were some really wonderful moments between them that I loved, so it wasn't only the struggles... ;) especially since it actually takes some time for them to get together... the book takes place over the span of a few months to be exact :) and I definitely loved watching how Millie starts to feel more comfortable and grows closer to everyone :)
When it comes to secondary characters, I need to name two of them :) first one is of course Addy, Jesse's daughter :) she's about four years old and just the cutest little thing :) she's very smart and I adored her... especially when you get to the part when the title of this book makes sense... *sighs dreamily* I won't say what it is, but it's so adorable I couldn't stop smiling once I read about it :) another one is Garratt, Jesse's younger brother... I am totally hoping he will get to be the hero of the sequel in this series... and if not the sequel then definitely somewhere along the way :) he was absolutely fantastic and I need to read about his happy ending :) there were of course quite a few others but these two absolutely stole my heart :)
All in all it was a really good book :) it was such a quick read for me, mainly because the writing style was hilarious and entertaining... ;) so even if certain characters *coughs* Jesse *coughs* did some things that made me want to smack them over the head... ;) I still couldn't put it down :) especially since it was actually written in 2 POVs, which means we got chapters from Millie's perspective, as well as Jesse's... :) and I have to say that being able to get a glimpse into his thoughts definitely helped me understand him... to the point I didn't hate him and was able to not throw my book away from frustration... ;) fortunately the ending was worth it... and that epilogue... *sighs happily* it's just what I like the most :) so even though I don't think it was perfect, I definitely had a lot of fun reading it and can honestly recommend this book to you guys... :)
XOXO
A
September 4, 2017
Wow! I completely give my heart to this book.
Box of hearts is a heartwarming read filled with passion, humour, twists and turns, second chances, regrets, new beginnings and special moments.
Jesse, I liked him, loved him, sympathised with him, hated him, I completely went through all the feels with this hot, stubborn, mule headed cowboy.
Millie, she was lovely, had sass although at times I felt she needed a bit more backbone.
The plot;
When Millie or Armalita which is her full name being part Spanish is left at the alter feeling betrayed, lied to and heartbroken she licks her wounds and applies for a teaching position as far away as she can get. This heartbroken preschool teacher from England finds herself on a plane to the U.S to live on a ranch and home school a four year old girl.
Jesse lost his wife two years ago, works and lives on the ranch with his family and little girl Addy. Jesse is grieving, closed off, he throws himself into work women and booze leaving no room for anything else, even his little girl.
Millie takes one look at the hot cowboy at the airport and after wiping the drool from her face falls instantly in lust with Jesse.
I had cringe moments, yes I actually cringed for Millie at times. In one scene Jesse says I want to fuck you now but will probably regret it tomorrow. This guy who had been more used to one night stands in the last two years has a hardened heart and unknowingly plays with Millies heart over and over.
As Jesse and Millie get to know one another the chemistry is sizzling but Jesse tells Millie he just wants to be a friend with benefits but Jesse wasn't even a friend at all at times.
My heart sank for Millie, I actually felt for her, she already had her heart broken or maybe pride broken once but the heart wants what the heart wants.
Now Millie should of walked then, slapped him even for making her feel used but did she? No, Millie was so smitten, head over heals from the first sight for Jesse and to top it off horny.
Millie took whatever scraps this heartbroken cowboy gave and I can't tell you how happy I was when patience paid off in the end.
Jesse completely vindicated himself and hats off to him the guy made me swoon.
Box of hearts is a story that will capture your heart, throw you through different emotions and take you on a beautiful journey.
Box of hearts is told in first persons dual pov is brilliantly balanced by the author with the dramas, angst with the fan me down hot & sexy scenes sprinkled graciously throughout and leads to a well deserved anticipated hea.
Looking forward to the next Nikki Ashton book.
Box of hearts is a heartwarming read filled with passion, humour, twists and turns, second chances, regrets, new beginnings and special moments.
Jesse, I liked him, loved him, sympathised with him, hated him, I completely went through all the feels with this hot, stubborn, mule headed cowboy.
Millie, she was lovely, had sass although at times I felt she needed a bit more backbone.
The plot;
When Millie or Armalita which is her full name being part Spanish is left at the alter feeling betrayed, lied to and heartbroken she licks her wounds and applies for a teaching position as far away as she can get. This heartbroken preschool teacher from England finds herself on a plane to the U.S to live on a ranch and home school a four year old girl.
Jesse lost his wife two years ago, works and lives on the ranch with his family and little girl Addy. Jesse is grieving, closed off, he throws himself into work women and booze leaving no room for anything else, even his little girl.
Millie takes one look at the hot cowboy at the airport and after wiping the drool from her face falls instantly in lust with Jesse.
I had cringe moments, yes I actually cringed for Millie at times. In one scene Jesse says I want to fuck you now but will probably regret it tomorrow. This guy who had been more used to one night stands in the last two years has a hardened heart and unknowingly plays with Millies heart over and over.
As Jesse and Millie get to know one another the chemistry is sizzling but Jesse tells Millie he just wants to be a friend with benefits but Jesse wasn't even a friend at all at times.
My heart sank for Millie, I actually felt for her, she already had her heart broken or maybe pride broken once but the heart wants what the heart wants.
Now Millie should of walked then, slapped him even for making her feel used but did she? No, Millie was so smitten, head over heals from the first sight for Jesse and to top it off horny.
Millie took whatever scraps this heartbroken cowboy gave and I can't tell you how happy I was when patience paid off in the end.
Jesse completely vindicated himself and hats off to him the guy made me swoon.
Box of hearts is a story that will capture your heart, throw you through different emotions and take you on a beautiful journey.
Box of hearts is told in first persons dual pov is brilliantly balanced by the author with the dramas, angst with the fan me down hot & sexy scenes sprinkled graciously throughout and leads to a well deserved anticipated hea.
Looking forward to the next Nikki Ashton book.
June 20, 2017
Let’s just say it straight away, Box of Hearts was not like the other romances I’ve read, and I absolutely loved it! When Millie is still in England, there is a small reference to one of Nikki Ashton’s other books, Roman is Having Sex Again (you can find my review over here) I really like it when books by the same author contain references to each other!
Because you read the book from Millie’s point of view, it starts off with Jesse being a super mysterious man, and most times I can’t handle that at all! I just want to know what a story is up to, really. On the other hand, it’s a romance, so you just know that the man and woman in the story will end up together, right? Luckily, you also get to read chapters from Jesse’s POV, so you get to know what he’s struggling with.
I was a bit confused by the first steamy scene, since it was suddenly there and then … it was over! And all that happened outside of the house where they live, so anyone could’ve seen it! I wasn’t the only one confused, of course, because Jesse and Millie were both confused as well and that leads to the first mini heartbreak.
Millie is not the only one who knows how it feels when a heart breaks. Jesse has lost his wife and now lives with his daughter and his parents on the ranch. This little girl, Abby, is just the most precious little kid ever! She is really smart for her age, but where most children also get rude when they’re smart, Abby doesn’t. And I loved her for that! She really brought life (and a little more heartbreak) to the story.
The whole story I kinda knew what the plottwist was going to be. And I was right. Well, not 100%, so I still was a little surprised when all the secrets got revealed in the end!
After reading two of Nikki Ashton’s novels, I am hooked! I really like her writingstyle and how she gives her twists to the stories so that none of them are you average romances.
4.25/5 ★
*I received an electronical copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Because you read the book from Millie’s point of view, it starts off with Jesse being a super mysterious man, and most times I can’t handle that at all! I just want to know what a story is up to, really. On the other hand, it’s a romance, so you just know that the man and woman in the story will end up together, right? Luckily, you also get to read chapters from Jesse’s POV, so you get to know what he’s struggling with.
I was a bit confused by the first steamy scene, since it was suddenly there and then … it was over! And all that happened outside of the house where they live, so anyone could’ve seen it! I wasn’t the only one confused, of course, because Jesse and Millie were both confused as well and that leads to the first mini heartbreak.
Millie is not the only one who knows how it feels when a heart breaks. Jesse has lost his wife and now lives with his daughter and his parents on the ranch. This little girl, Abby, is just the most precious little kid ever! She is really smart for her age, but where most children also get rude when they’re smart, Abby doesn’t. And I loved her for that! She really brought life (and a little more heartbreak) to the story.
The whole story I kinda knew what the plottwist was going to be. And I was right. Well, not 100%, so I still was a little surprised when all the secrets got revealed in the end!
After reading two of Nikki Ashton’s novels, I am hooked! I really like her writingstyle and how she gives her twists to the stories so that none of them are you average romances.
4.25/5 ★
*I received an electronical copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
May 14, 2024
I see a lot of 5 stars for this book so this is a little awkward lol. This book was ehh… it was all right. The drama was there, I didn’t feel much angst. Idk how I feel about Jesse’s POV sometimes being less than a paragraph long, I thought that was a little strange but what do I know. I didn’t like Jesse, there I said it. Millie was all right. The book was just all right for me lol. 🤷🏻♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
February 16, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (2/16/2018)! 💝
Blurb:
Can two lost souls find love after loss?
“Nikki Ashton at her absolute best!!”
“This book provoked more tears than I’m used to from Nikki, but there was still the humour…Easily a five star read, I would give more if I could!”
Having been jilted at the alter Millie is devastated. She certainly didn't see it coming-Dean was her best friend. When an opportunity to go to America to use her teaching and childcare skills arises, she applies and gets the job of looking after widower Jesse Connor's four-year-old, gifted, daughter, Addy. It’s just what she needs, but what she doesn’t need is to find herself instantly attracted to the brooding rancher.
Jesse has been struggling for two years to come to terms with his wife's death, he's been grief stricken and if things don't change he's going to disappear into that grief. His family are learning to live with the consequences of Jesse’s choices, as well as trying to support him and the ranch they own and that he manages. All this while praying for a miracle that he will see the loving family and sweet daughter that he has in front of him. Then, the beautiful and feisty Millie arrives and things get interesting.
Millie & Jesse are two broken souls who are both fighting against the inevitable, because they both know that this time their hearts could be shattered beyond repair.
Box of Hearts is the first book in the Connor Ranch series and tells the story of second chance love and the joy and sorrow it can bring.
Blurb:
Can two lost souls find love after loss?
“Nikki Ashton at her absolute best!!”
“This book provoked more tears than I’m used to from Nikki, but there was still the humour…Easily a five star read, I would give more if I could!”
Having been jilted at the alter Millie is devastated. She certainly didn't see it coming-Dean was her best friend. When an opportunity to go to America to use her teaching and childcare skills arises, she applies and gets the job of looking after widower Jesse Connor's four-year-old, gifted, daughter, Addy. It’s just what she needs, but what she doesn’t need is to find herself instantly attracted to the brooding rancher.
Jesse has been struggling for two years to come to terms with his wife's death, he's been grief stricken and if things don't change he's going to disappear into that grief. His family are learning to live with the consequences of Jesse’s choices, as well as trying to support him and the ranch they own and that he manages. All this while praying for a miracle that he will see the loving family and sweet daughter that he has in front of him. Then, the beautiful and feisty Millie arrives and things get interesting.
Millie & Jesse are two broken souls who are both fighting against the inevitable, because they both know that this time their hearts could be shattered beyond repair.
Box of Hearts is the first book in the Connor Ranch series and tells the story of second chance love and the joy and sorrow it can bring.
April 15, 2017
Box of Hearts is Nikki at her best- she has nothing to be nervous about with this book. It's a rare occasion where you find yourself wanting to slow down because you never want it to end but you can't because your completely engrossed in the story, you can't stop.
Millie thinks she fond the love of her life, in best friend Dean- but when things go sour on what should be the happiest day of her life. She takes drastic action- leaving England to take a nanny position on a ranch in America.
Jesse is stuck in a strong grief for his late wife and mother of his daughter Addy. He's shut everyone out, he only has time for his work. But then this British Girl turns up and changed everything he thought he knew.
Addy- what a beautiful little girl and so bright for a four year. No matter what life's thrown at her, she's always found a reason to smile. Her tradition brought tears to my eyes.
Garratt- I don't know what it is, but every time he's featured I smile like a teenager. There just something about his character, if he was real I'd marry him tomorrow.... I can't wait for his own story! He had me laughing out loud when he said 'what's Micky Mouse got to do with it"
Auntie Ruby, omg what a character! The things she comes out with have you rolling round the floor, she's enough to brighten up the darkest of days.
This whole story is a rollercoaster of emotions from love, sadness, grief, anger.... its so well written, that you feel each emotion as you go through the book. I've never read a book that's me feel so much emotion and such strong senses, you feel like your really on that ranch in America- I can picture my version in my head as clear as day, have to pinch yourself to bring yourself back to reality.
I've read all Nikki's books and I've never been able to fault them. I can't recommend her enough! But there's just something extra special about this one, it's definitely got the wow factor! It takes a lot to make me cry but this one did, this is one of the rare few that will stay with me for a long time to come!
I'll be forever grateful for the day I came across Nikki's book No Bra Required by accident. I found a very talented lady, a great friend and books I know I'll love! She is my number one, in my top ten of favourite authors. Whenever it's one of Nikki's there's lots of late nights, because she's got me hooked. Waiting patiently now for Garratt's book.
I was given an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Millie thinks she fond the love of her life, in best friend Dean- but when things go sour on what should be the happiest day of her life. She takes drastic action- leaving England to take a nanny position on a ranch in America.
Jesse is stuck in a strong grief for his late wife and mother of his daughter Addy. He's shut everyone out, he only has time for his work. But then this British Girl turns up and changed everything he thought he knew.
Addy- what a beautiful little girl and so bright for a four year. No matter what life's thrown at her, she's always found a reason to smile. Her tradition brought tears to my eyes.
Garratt- I don't know what it is, but every time he's featured I smile like a teenager. There just something about his character, if he was real I'd marry him tomorrow.... I can't wait for his own story! He had me laughing out loud when he said 'what's Micky Mouse got to do with it"
Auntie Ruby, omg what a character! The things she comes out with have you rolling round the floor, she's enough to brighten up the darkest of days.
This whole story is a rollercoaster of emotions from love, sadness, grief, anger.... its so well written, that you feel each emotion as you go through the book. I've never read a book that's me feel so much emotion and such strong senses, you feel like your really on that ranch in America- I can picture my version in my head as clear as day, have to pinch yourself to bring yourself back to reality.
I've read all Nikki's books and I've never been able to fault them. I can't recommend her enough! But there's just something extra special about this one, it's definitely got the wow factor! It takes a lot to make me cry but this one did, this is one of the rare few that will stay with me for a long time to come!
I'll be forever grateful for the day I came across Nikki's book No Bra Required by accident. I found a very talented lady, a great friend and books I know I'll love! She is my number one, in my top ten of favourite authors. Whenever it's one of Nikki's there's lots of late nights, because she's got me hooked. Waiting patiently now for Garratt's book.
I was given an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Currently reading
May 22, 2017Lizard: 4⋆.
Wombat: Pending⋆.
Overall: Pending⋆.
Wombat: Pending⋆.
Overall: Pending⋆.
July 26, 2017
This book definitely deserved all 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟! This book will have you laughing, crying, mad, every emotion possible! I couldn't get my nose out of it!
Millie is a sweet heartbroken women coming to America to get away. Jesse is a heartbroken jerk that doesn't want anyone to get in his self wallowing way. Millie gradually breaks at his walls with so many bumps along the way. Definitely a must read!!
Millie is a sweet heartbroken women coming to America to get away. Jesse is a heartbroken jerk that doesn't want anyone to get in his self wallowing way. Millie gradually breaks at his walls with so many bumps along the way. Definitely a must read!!
July 15, 2019
This was my first book by Nikki Ashton and it certainly won’t be the last. This book had everything and I loved it.
I initially read this book in preparation for Books on the Beach Blackpool signing.
From the very start the twists and turns in this plot were giving me whiplash and I loved it. My heart broke for Millie being stood up at the alter and then it broke all over again for Addy and then for Jesse. What a story to unravel! I loved the deep raw emotions in it, and Auntie Ruby was just perfect, I loved her. I may have even developed a soft spot for Garrett too.
I loved the connection Millie and Jesse has right from the start without either of them really realising it. She influenced him in taking his life back and loving Addy again just by her presence at the ranch.
It was beautiful and I really hope we get to see Garretts story.
I initially read this book in preparation for Books on the Beach Blackpool signing.
From the very start the twists and turns in this plot were giving me whiplash and I loved it. My heart broke for Millie being stood up at the alter and then it broke all over again for Addy and then for Jesse. What a story to unravel! I loved the deep raw emotions in it, and Auntie Ruby was just perfect, I loved her. I may have even developed a soft spot for Garrett too.
I loved the connection Millie and Jesse has right from the start without either of them really realising it. She influenced him in taking his life back and loving Addy again just by her presence at the ranch.
It was beautiful and I really hope we get to see Garretts story.
August 1, 2021
Brooding cowboy, single dad meets British nanny hired by his mom & instantly the sparks fly. I loved the Connor ranch family, each with their most endearing & quirky traits, but little four year old Addy claimed my heart & held it tight from beginning to end.
Jesse, still mourning the loss of his wife two years later, has closed himself off from most on the family ranch, including his daughter who just yearns for any attention from him, no matter how small. The family, including his brother & parents try to make up for this but sadly & justifiably, Addy just wants her daddy. His mother has her hands full with her duties & so hires Millie, a nursery school teacher from the U.K. to teach & care for Addy during the day. This brings much delight to the sweet girl & a close adoration & bond connect the two.
A heart warming story with great family drama, a twist or two in the plot but mostly a heated slow burn emotional romance that brings two people together with their love of one special little girl.
As much as I enjoyed the book, it did earn a few eye rolls:
-the quivering & the pressing of her thighs together each time Millie saw Jesse enter the room (oh please)
-extremely childish arguments
-did someone say horse's ass? yes, that would be Jesse, to the extreme & back & forth emotional ping pong
-and finally, Millie, get yourself a backbone & stop accepting this guy's crap & make him grovel big time.
I loved the family dynamics here, the shrieks of a happy Addie & the HEA that all so much deserved.
Now, on to Garrett's story.
Jesse, still mourning the loss of his wife two years later, has closed himself off from most on the family ranch, including his daughter who just yearns for any attention from him, no matter how small. The family, including his brother & parents try to make up for this but sadly & justifiably, Addy just wants her daddy. His mother has her hands full with her duties & so hires Millie, a nursery school teacher from the U.K. to teach & care for Addy during the day. This brings much delight to the sweet girl & a close adoration & bond connect the two.
A heart warming story with great family drama, a twist or two in the plot but mostly a heated slow burn emotional romance that brings two people together with their love of one special little girl.
As much as I enjoyed the book, it did earn a few eye rolls:
-the quivering & the pressing of her thighs together each time Millie saw Jesse enter the room (oh please)
-extremely childish arguments
-did someone say horse's ass? yes, that would be Jesse, to the extreme & back & forth emotional ping pong
-and finally, Millie, get yourself a backbone & stop accepting this guy's crap & make him grovel big time.
I loved the family dynamics here, the shrieks of a happy Addie & the HEA that all so much deserved.
Now, on to Garrett's story.
September 4, 2021
*4,5 stars*
I have finally read my first Nikki Ashton book. Definitely need to thank everyone for recommending this to me as I truly enjoyed reading it! It was a very well written story and a story that was heartwrenching but also healing in the end. Loved the chemistry between Jesse and Millie and who doesn't love a great single dad book! The little girl in this story was just adorable and made it even better for me. I will definitely check out the other books in this series.
Millie was cheated on by her best friend and left him at the altar; she doesn't want to stay in town and leaves England for the US to work as a nanny/teacher for a little girl at a ranch. Even though she's still reeling from what's happened to her, she finds a way to deal with the pain every single step she takes. But when she first meets Jesse, she feels immediately drawn to him and she just can't get over the attraction she feels for him. But as a single dad and still trying to get over his wife's death, Jesse works night and day at the ranch to provide a life for his daughter. But somewhere down the line he's lost more than the love of his life.
The more time they spend together, Millie is making him see that there's more to life than just grieving and he's slowly picking up the pieces.
But will Millie be able to break down Jesse's walls and make him see that his daughter is worth it all? And most importantly, that he is capable to love once again?...
I have finally read my first Nikki Ashton book. Definitely need to thank everyone for recommending this to me as I truly enjoyed reading it! It was a very well written story and a story that was heartwrenching but also healing in the end. Loved the chemistry between Jesse and Millie and who doesn't love a great single dad book! The little girl in this story was just adorable and made it even better for me. I will definitely check out the other books in this series.
Millie was cheated on by her best friend and left him at the altar; she doesn't want to stay in town and leaves England for the US to work as a nanny/teacher for a little girl at a ranch. Even though she's still reeling from what's happened to her, she finds a way to deal with the pain every single step she takes. But when she first meets Jesse, she feels immediately drawn to him and she just can't get over the attraction she feels for him. But as a single dad and still trying to get over his wife's death, Jesse works night and day at the ranch to provide a life for his daughter. But somewhere down the line he's lost more than the love of his life.
The more time they spend together, Millie is making him see that there's more to life than just grieving and he's slowly picking up the pieces.
But will Millie be able to break down Jesse's walls and make him see that his daughter is worth it all? And most importantly, that he is capable to love once again?...
April 28, 2019
I recently came across Nikki Ashton at an author event and was instantly drawn to her books because of their beautiful covers. I didn't realise until yesterday when looking to see what books I hadn't read on my Kindle that I'd downloaded Box of Hearts last year. I was so excited and jumped straight into the story of Millie and Jesse. I'm so glad that I did because this story was amazing and I couldn't put it down. This 5 star read keeps you captivated throughout and things become funny once Great Aunt Ruby arrives as she doesn't hold back and I found myself laughing out loud several times. I also loved the idea behind the book's title and my heart melted when Addy explained it to Millie.
This is the first book I've read by Nikki Ashton and I'm left wanting more. She's so talented and knows how to give the reader just what they need. Box of Hearts is one of those books that reminds you why you love to read so much and how an author's words can carry you away to another place. Nikki Ashton has become one of my must-read authors from just this one book! If you haven't picked up this book yet, then you definitely need to!
This is the first book I've read by Nikki Ashton and I'm left wanting more. She's so talented and knows how to give the reader just what they need. Box of Hearts is one of those books that reminds you why you love to read so much and how an author's words can carry you away to another place. Nikki Ashton has become one of my must-read authors from just this one book! If you haven't picked up this book yet, then you definitely need to!
January 21, 2022
4.5 stars - Loved this !!
I've really only read Nikki's rom coms so this was different but thoroughly enjoyable. Millie and Jesse seemed to not be destined to be together.. there's definitely chemistry from the beginning when Millie turns up to look after his daughter, but Jesse cannot let go of his dead wife and his head was definitely way too far up his arse for far too long ! She was a ghost that in his head was way more perfect than she really was and everyone could see it except Jesse.
He went one step too far on numerous occasions pushing Millie away and tbh I wasn't sure how many chances she could give him for being a douche!!
Some home truths are discovered and eventually he realises where his heart truly lies.. it took him a while to catch up with everyone else though - even his 4 year old daughter had better insight than him ! 🤣
I've really only read Nikki's rom coms so this was different but thoroughly enjoyable. Millie and Jesse seemed to not be destined to be together.. there's definitely chemistry from the beginning when Millie turns up to look after his daughter, but Jesse cannot let go of his dead wife and his head was definitely way too far up his arse for far too long ! She was a ghost that in his head was way more perfect than she really was and everyone could see it except Jesse.
He went one step too far on numerous occasions pushing Millie away and tbh I wasn't sure how many chances she could give him for being a douche!!
Some home truths are discovered and eventually he realises where his heart truly lies.. it took him a while to catch up with everyone else though - even his 4 year old daughter had better insight than him ! 🤣
May 23, 2017
I liked the story but I'm not sure I liked the main characters most of the time. Milli was a bit of a doormat. She only grew a spine at the end. How do you end up in an intimate situation with someone who has barely been civil to you? Jesse was a tool. The death of his wife did not excuse his actions as everyone in his life seemed to believe. He was mean to everyone, even his poor little girl. He was so caught up in his own drama that he didn't even think about how his flip-flopping would hurt Milli. It ended well but I'm not sure if it should have.
April 30, 2017
Box of Hearts is a roll-a-coaster of emotions created by growing pains, loss, disappointments in life, passion and daring to love again after your heart is shattered in pieces.
It is about family, it is about finding your destiny, finding the place and the people you are supposed to share your life with. It is about betrayal, lies, and deceit. It parallels real life with its rawness and roughness, the deep feelings rolling inside, and the fears of failing and being rejected.
I adored Addy, the little four-year-old is a champion of life. Through so much loss and sadness as she had had to face, rejection from her parents, she still has the biggest heart, the warmest disposition, and kindness to all. She was the light and center of the story and my favorite part of it. She won my heart over and touched my emotions deeply.
The book is written in the first person point of view where Millie and Jesse take turns to tell their story. The constant change of the point of view made it a restless story to follow. I am not a fan of the 1st person POV, and the short jumps between the protagonist's thoughts made it hard for me to connect with them.
Jesse's behavior and hostile attitude, the constant hot and cold, push and pull he did with everyone around him including his daughter, was a tough pill for me to swallow. I was not fond of this character, and despite the hope, that I would grow to like him as the story progress, he pulled the rug under my feet once again.
The attraction, lust, and passion between Millie and Jesse were obvious, even comical at times. They had an undeniable connection of minds, pulling them together like a magnet.
There is some third person drama as well, another element that I usually avoid in the romance stories I read. That element had some predictability with it from the start of the story. Yet it brought a load of drama and trouble to the characters, bringing the angst and despair to high levels.
The beauty of the story was watching the two broken souls heal, find recovery of their minds, hearts, and souls with a help of a four-year-old Addy. The road to redemption is rough, raw, and tear-jerking honest, at times harsh, and at times filled with beauty. The story left me feeling exposed and sore, with an uncertain mind. A very emotional tale of life, love, and loss
~ Three Spoons
It is about family, it is about finding your destiny, finding the place and the people you are supposed to share your life with. It is about betrayal, lies, and deceit. It parallels real life with its rawness and roughness, the deep feelings rolling inside, and the fears of failing and being rejected.
I adored Addy, the little four-year-old is a champion of life. Through so much loss and sadness as she had had to face, rejection from her parents, she still has the biggest heart, the warmest disposition, and kindness to all. She was the light and center of the story and my favorite part of it. She won my heart over and touched my emotions deeply.
The book is written in the first person point of view where Millie and Jesse take turns to tell their story. The constant change of the point of view made it a restless story to follow. I am not a fan of the 1st person POV, and the short jumps between the protagonist's thoughts made it hard for me to connect with them.
Jesse's behavior and hostile attitude, the constant hot and cold, push and pull he did with everyone around him including his daughter, was a tough pill for me to swallow. I was not fond of this character, and despite the hope, that I would grow to like him as the story progress, he pulled the rug under my feet once again.
The attraction, lust, and passion between Millie and Jesse were obvious, even comical at times. They had an undeniable connection of minds, pulling them together like a magnet.
There is some third person drama as well, another element that I usually avoid in the romance stories I read. That element had some predictability with it from the start of the story. Yet it brought a load of drama and trouble to the characters, bringing the angst and despair to high levels.
The beauty of the story was watching the two broken souls heal, find recovery of their minds, hearts, and souls with a help of a four-year-old Addy. The road to redemption is rough, raw, and tear-jerking honest, at times harsh, and at times filled with beauty. The story left me feeling exposed and sore, with an uncertain mind. A very emotional tale of life, love, and loss
~ Three Spoons
April 26, 2017
When Millie Braithwaite finds herself dumped at the altar and the talk of her hometown in England, she decides to accept an employment offer in a small town in the USA taking care of a precocious 4 year old.
Jesse Connor lost his wife 2 years ago in an accident and he’s still grieving. He keeps himself numb with long work hours and meaningless sexual encounters, but not even the unconditional love of his precious little girl has been able to bring him back to the man he used to be.
Millie and Jesse feel the attraction to one another, but they know this can be messy, not to mention that Jesse only want to be friends with benefits. He knows she deserves more than that and tries to stay away, but once they fall into each other’s arms it becomes harder and harder to stay away.
This is my first read by this author and I have to say I just loved this story. I was hooked up from the prologue and it was hard for me to put down, but, more than that, to see it come to an end.
I loved Millie and Jesse and, though I wanted to throat punch him more than once throughout the book because of his push and pull behavior and also because even a blind man could see what was right in front of his face, I also understood his grief and the difficulties he was confronting to move on. Despite this fact, I still loved him because he had amazing qualities as well. Then there’s Millie with her big heart full of love for them all, his amazing family and little Addy with an insight that went way beyond her years.
Box of Hearts is one of those books I come to read not knowing what to expect and left me with a great aftertaste. It was an enjoyable story full of candor and family love. It is funny, heartfelt and thoroughly romantic and I can’t wait to come back to Connor Ranch!
4 very heartfelt stars
*An ARC was given in exchange for an honest review*
Jesse Connor lost his wife 2 years ago in an accident and he’s still grieving. He keeps himself numb with long work hours and meaningless sexual encounters, but not even the unconditional love of his precious little girl has been able to bring him back to the man he used to be.
Millie and Jesse feel the attraction to one another, but they know this can be messy, not to mention that Jesse only want to be friends with benefits. He knows she deserves more than that and tries to stay away, but once they fall into each other’s arms it becomes harder and harder to stay away.
This is my first read by this author and I have to say I just loved this story. I was hooked up from the prologue and it was hard for me to put down, but, more than that, to see it come to an end.
I loved Millie and Jesse and, though I wanted to throat punch him more than once throughout the book because of his push and pull behavior and also because even a blind man could see what was right in front of his face, I also understood his grief and the difficulties he was confronting to move on. Despite this fact, I still loved him because he had amazing qualities as well. Then there’s Millie with her big heart full of love for them all, his amazing family and little Addy with an insight that went way beyond her years.
Box of Hearts is one of those books I come to read not knowing what to expect and left me with a great aftertaste. It was an enjoyable story full of candor and family love. It is funny, heartfelt and thoroughly romantic and I can’t wait to come back to Connor Ranch!
4 very heartfelt stars
*An ARC was given in exchange for an honest review*
April 27, 2017
This is my second book I have read by Nikki Ashton and i'm now a big fan. This story is brilliant written and really pulled at my heartstrings. It was filled with betrayal, lies, heartbreak, grief, loss, healing, laughter, family, love and passion. Everything that makes a great book that will keep you engrossed from start to finish and completely invested in the characters.
After being jilted at the altar, Millie is embarrassed and devastated and she applies for a job in the states to help a widower look after his 4 year old daughter. This little girl really barges into you heart as shes majorly cute and been through so much bless her. Her father Jesse has cut himself off from his little girl as he is drowning in his grief for his dead Wife Melody, that is until he meets Millie, she starts to bring his dark, broken heart back to life and bring the laughter and happiness back.
Tissues will be needed at points throughout as the emotions that seep from the pages, from all the characters, specifially Addy, Millie and Jessie are really raw and emotional. Some words spoken cut deep and watching the family heal from this loss and grief really gets to you.
Don't be too disheartened, whilst I shed tears I also laughed a lot, there were some great moments where you laugh so much you almost pee your pants. This book really is the perfect blend of emotions. The Push and pull between Millie and Jessie feels really real, yes their feelings develop quickly but they really struggle with them, the guilt from moving on, the pain of thinking your second best to a ghost.
I would love to read more from the family, especially Garrett, I so loved him!!
I voluntarily reviews and Advanced Readers Copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review from the Author
After being jilted at the altar, Millie is embarrassed and devastated and she applies for a job in the states to help a widower look after his 4 year old daughter. This little girl really barges into you heart as shes majorly cute and been through so much bless her. Her father Jesse has cut himself off from his little girl as he is drowning in his grief for his dead Wife Melody, that is until he meets Millie, she starts to bring his dark, broken heart back to life and bring the laughter and happiness back.
Tissues will be needed at points throughout as the emotions that seep from the pages, from all the characters, specifially Addy, Millie and Jessie are really raw and emotional. Some words spoken cut deep and watching the family heal from this loss and grief really gets to you.
Don't be too disheartened, whilst I shed tears I also laughed a lot, there were some great moments where you laugh so much you almost pee your pants. This book really is the perfect blend of emotions. The Push and pull between Millie and Jessie feels really real, yes their feelings develop quickly but they really struggle with them, the guilt from moving on, the pain of thinking your second best to a ghost.
I would love to read more from the family, especially Garrett, I so loved him!!
I voluntarily reviews and Advanced Readers Copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review from the Author
April 27, 2017
First time reading Nikki Ashton and I'm hooked. Two souls and second chances for love, your heart will sore for Millie and Jesse. Beautiful written with a man who was lost emotionally and the woman who helped him in need.
Millie is a strong woman who had a heart of gold but was unlucky with love. With being hired to homeschool Addy, she felt for the child by the emotionally absent father. The Connor family pulled together in a time of need and was always there for the precious Addy. Millie wasn't afraid to stand her ground even though she pushed Jesse's personal boundaries. Through time and the help of Millie, Jesse realized how much time he missed with his daughter. He loved Addy's mother and still kept her on a pedestal even though she was dead. But he kept having strong loving feelings for Millie that made him feel guilty to his deceased wife. With some eye opening events, he realized what he thought was true wasn't.
At the end of Box of Hearts was twists and turns. When you think best friends have your back, they don't. It was very touching how Addy knew when to give a heart to someone that was ready to explore love. She definitely was a gifted little girl!!
4.5 stars
Received arc for an honest review
Millie is a strong woman who had a heart of gold but was unlucky with love. With being hired to homeschool Addy, she felt for the child by the emotionally absent father. The Connor family pulled together in a time of need and was always there for the precious Addy. Millie wasn't afraid to stand her ground even though she pushed Jesse's personal boundaries. Through time and the help of Millie, Jesse realized how much time he missed with his daughter. He loved Addy's mother and still kept her on a pedestal even though she was dead. But he kept having strong loving feelings for Millie that made him feel guilty to his deceased wife. With some eye opening events, he realized what he thought was true wasn't.
At the end of Box of Hearts was twists and turns. When you think best friends have your back, they don't. It was very touching how Addy knew when to give a heart to someone that was ready to explore love. She definitely was a gifted little girl!!
4.5 stars
Received arc for an honest review
May 1, 2017
I LOVE Nikki Ashton's books and I've got to say Box of Hearts is my favourite. I couldn't put it down, had me sucked in from beginning to end and by god I wasn't ready for this book to finish, I just wanted more and more. The best news is there is more to come from the Connor family, which I can't wait.
I loved the characters in the story and you will too. Millie is unlucky in love goes to start a new life as a nanny at the Connor Ranch. Jesse Connor is the HOT ranch owner widowed father to Addy. Little Addy is screaming out for her daddy's attention. Can Millie help Jesse realise he can't keep pushing his daughter away and be the loving father he used to be. It wouldn't be a Nikki Ashton book without a bit of humour in it, Auntie Ruby she'll have you bad laughing, we all need an Aunt like Ruby. Definitely a MUST read
I loved the characters in the story and you will too. Millie is unlucky in love goes to start a new life as a nanny at the Connor Ranch. Jesse Connor is the HOT ranch owner widowed father to Addy. Little Addy is screaming out for her daddy's attention. Can Millie help Jesse realise he can't keep pushing his daughter away and be the loving father he used to be. It wouldn't be a Nikki Ashton book without a bit of humour in it, Auntie Ruby she'll have you bad laughing, we all need an Aunt like Ruby. Definitely a MUST read
April 28, 2017
This is such a heart touching novel that it's easy to see how a child can bring someone together. Millie takes a job on a farm taking care of Addy, Jesse's daughter. He's lost after losing his wife and Millie is no better, having just been left at the alter. Addy is what makes this book so good. She wants everyone to find love. She's such a precious child. However I didn't swoon over Jesse. Normally I'm crazy about still dad romances but this dad needed a good kick in the junk. He's not a very good one. I have to say my least favorite part about this book was the way he treated Millie time and time again. I mean he was a straight up dog to her at times. She's such a strong woman to put up with his crap because I know I wouldn't have. I just didn't connect with him.
February 4, 2020
Oh Wow! Not sure but this might have become my favourite Nikki Ashton book! It has been on my reading list for months and I really don’t know what took me so long to read it!
Jesse - a cowboy with a broken heart after the death of his wife, left to sort a ranch and a 2yr old daughter, Addy, along with his parents and younger brother. He shuts down and pushes them away. 2 yrs later and at the end of her energy reserves Bonnie (Jesse Mum) puts a request out for some help with now 4yr old Addy
Millie answers that advert, after a change in personal circumstances, meaning she needs to get away to mend her own broken heart.
The dynamics of the characters and the writing lead to a brilliantly written book which had me on the edge of my seat not wanting to put it down!
Jesse - a cowboy with a broken heart after the death of his wife, left to sort a ranch and a 2yr old daughter, Addy, along with his parents and younger brother. He shuts down and pushes them away. 2 yrs later and at the end of her energy reserves Bonnie (Jesse Mum) puts a request out for some help with now 4yr old Addy
Millie answers that advert, after a change in personal circumstances, meaning she needs to get away to mend her own broken heart.
The dynamics of the characters and the writing lead to a brilliantly written book which had me on the edge of my seat not wanting to put it down!
May 2, 2017
Jesse was a single dad who worked on his family ranch pretty much ignoring his daughter and leaving his parents to raise her. Millie needed a fresh start after being bailed on at the alter, took a job in the U.S. babysitting Jesse's daughter. She ended up helping the family so much more than helping teach a toddler. This book kind of dragged in some places for me. I felt like there was a lot of filler that didn't progress the story much. The push-and-pull that Jesse was doing on Millie got old real fast for me. The family dynamic was actually my favorite part of this story, seeing how they all worked together and how close was really sweet.
Reviewed for HeadTripping Books by Alisha
Reviewed for HeadTripping Books by Alisha
April 28, 2017
***4.5 Stars***
I love discovering new authors, it's one of the most amazing aspects of being a blogger--be it through a recommendation, someone reaching out to us, the cover, or the blurb. Giving unknown, or new to me, authors a chance it something fundamentally important when doing this. And while you sometimes might end up disappointed, sometimes you discover a book and author you love! This is what I love about being a blogger.
And Nikki Ashton is such an author to me. I've never read her before and she blew me away with Box of Hearts.
Millie is running away—plain and simple. Running away from her past relationship which went up in flames, the humiliation, the heartbreak. Coming to America from the UK is supposed to be her year of healing and fun. What she didn’t expect was Jesse—sexy, hot, asshole cowboy.
Jesse hasn’t had it easy, a single father in his twenties, he blames everyone around him for his problems. He’s broken, depressed, and can’t seem to find his way out of the black hole he’s found himself in. That is, until Millie walks off a plane and into his life. But can two broken souls find each other? Or is the damage done in the past too deep to overcome?
I love everything about this book—the characters, the plot, the setting. It's everything I hope for when I started it and so much more. I couldn’t get enough of this story. The writing is excellent, the characters will draw you in from page one, and the plot, while I saw some things coming, is still pleasantly unpredictable. But my favorite part about the book is probably 4our-year-old Addy. She’s a hoot, and so attuned to other people it’s fascinating. She will not only keep you entertained throughout the book, but also make you fall in love not just with her but everyone else.
If you are in need of a great love story about forgiving yourself and letting love in, letting go of the sins of others to find happiness—set in beautiful landscape—Box of Hearts is the book for you.
*ARC provided for an honest review*
I love discovering new authors, it's one of the most amazing aspects of being a blogger--be it through a recommendation, someone reaching out to us, the cover, or the blurb. Giving unknown, or new to me, authors a chance it something fundamentally important when doing this. And while you sometimes might end up disappointed, sometimes you discover a book and author you love! This is what I love about being a blogger.
And Nikki Ashton is such an author to me. I've never read her before and she blew me away with Box of Hearts.
Millie is running away—plain and simple. Running away from her past relationship which went up in flames, the humiliation, the heartbreak. Coming to America from the UK is supposed to be her year of healing and fun. What she didn’t expect was Jesse—sexy, hot, asshole cowboy.
Jesse hasn’t had it easy, a single father in his twenties, he blames everyone around him for his problems. He’s broken, depressed, and can’t seem to find his way out of the black hole he’s found himself in. That is, until Millie walks off a plane and into his life. But can two broken souls find each other? Or is the damage done in the past too deep to overcome?
I love everything about this book—the characters, the plot, the setting. It's everything I hope for when I started it and so much more. I couldn’t get enough of this story. The writing is excellent, the characters will draw you in from page one, and the plot, while I saw some things coming, is still pleasantly unpredictable. But my favorite part about the book is probably 4our-year-old Addy. She’s a hoot, and so attuned to other people it’s fascinating. She will not only keep you entertained throughout the book, but also make you fall in love not just with her but everyone else.
If you are in need of a great love story about forgiving yourself and letting love in, letting go of the sins of others to find happiness—set in beautiful landscape—Box of Hearts is the book for you.
*ARC provided for an honest review*
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